Complaint Review: OnRebate - Tiger Direct

I purchased a "Kolin" TV manufactured by Syntax Groups (who also makes the "Olevia" TV) through Tiger Direct. When the TV arrived it was missing the entire module of receptacles required to operate the TV. After 25 minutes on hold to Tiger Direct I was told this was a manufacturing issue. I contacted Syntax Groups who after multiple phone calls sent me a new module to install myself. They also offered a 50 dollar gift card for my trouble (which has yet to be received). Getting a copy of my invoice from Tiger Direct is another issue that took 5 e-mails and 2 phone calls.

Two weeks later after I was shipped the module from Syntax and the TV was finally operable, I began completing the paper work for a rebate from Tiger Direct through OnRebate.com. Because I could see reading between the lines that there were potential pitfalls in dealing with OnRebate I was scrupulous in providing all requested information, being both on time as well as providing all requested information.

Item #6 on their rebate form calls for "Serial Number/UPC Code". The only bar code on the box of the TV Set I purchased contained the "model and serial" number which I submitted on their form. An e-mail this morning informed me 30 days after mailing that I had not submitted the "UPC" code but rather the serial number and my claim was denied.

Today after a 45 minute wait on hold my phone battery went dead and with only a minute to give my number to the service rep had to request she call me back. When she called back 5 minutes later she told me I had not provided the proper information and I would not be able to re-submit and hung up on me. Hogwash. I have sent an e-mail to the manufacturer about this issue but feel certain I will be treated to a major run-around.

This OnRebate outfit obviously makes their money by not refunding properly documented rebate requests. Any company that keeps you on hold for 45 minutes listening to a recording that repeatedly tells you how important you are is 1. unethical 2. un-professional 3. dishonest. I retained a scanned copy of my rebate form and have taken a photo of the back of the TV set should anyone from OnRebate want proof of my good faith. It is a guarantee that I will never purchase from Tiger Direct (via Amazon no less), Syntax Group or from any other manufacturer using OnRebate for the rebate program.

Perhaps the person at OnRebate.com who replied to the other folks ripped off as well will reply to me. Holding my breath here!

Gayle
El Dorado Hills, California
U.S.A.